JON Barnes and Clare Bunce were in fine form during the third running of the Wye Valley Runners-organised Breinton 10-mile road race.

Barnes representing Cheltenham Harriers held off a strong challenge from second placed Dan King of Wye Valley Runners and third placed James Pugsley of Bideford AC.

There was an incredibly close finish to the ladies race with just one minute separating the first five places.

Bunce, of Red Rose Runners, held off a sprint finish from Megan Judge of Malvern Joggers with just three seconds separating them as they crossed the finish line.

Nikki Childs of Wye Valley Runners finished third just one second ahead of club-mate Daneen Hughes.

Barnes and Judge were both gold medal winners in the Herefordshire County Championships and were winners of the County Championship Cups.

Wye Valley Runners retained both men’s and ladies team titles.

The winning men's team was Dan King, Steven Flowers and Jeremy Jehan.

The winning ladies were Nikki Childs, Daneen Hughes and Laura Tootell.

The Tom Pugsley memorial trophies, aimed at encouraging young people to participate in sport, were awarded to James Pugsley of Bideford AC and Becky Humphreys of Wye Valley Runners.

The Ross Jones Memorial Trophy was awarded to Stacey Morgan of Croft Ambrey.

Refreshment sales raised money for the club charity of the year Marches Family Network.

"This year's race was run in exceptionally warm conditions and attracted a good quality field from all over the country," said club spokesman Mike Shaw.

"We were particularly pleased to welcome John Walshe from County Cork, lead organiser of the world-famous Ballycotton 10.

"Creditably, 80 of the 93 finishers completed the undulating course in under 90 mins."

Wye Valley Runners wish to thank Hereford Rowing Club for use of their facilities, race sponsors Hi-Town Taxis, all the runners and especially the many helpers and race marshals that make this event possible.